Share This Site

Tell A Friend

There was a problem sending your email. If the problem continues, please contact the site administrator.

Your email has been sent successfully.

History

Prairie Diagnostic Services Inc. (PDS) was formed as a not-for-profit corporation in 1999 through the creation of a partnership between the University of Saskatchewan and the Province of Saskatchewan. The new entity brought together two independently operating diagnostic services. Two laboratories, the Provincial Veterinary Laboratory in Regina and the diagnostic laboratories at the Western College of Veterinary Medicine (WCVM), were folded into the new organization along with their respective employees, facilities, and equipment. Agreements were struck between PDS and its Members (the University and the Province) regarding on-going grants, in-kind support and the exchange of services required to support PDS and the Members interests.

The newly formed diagnostic service was expected to support Saskatchewan’s Veterinary practitioners, Saskatchewan’s food animal industry, the Western College of Veterinary Medicine (WCVM), and the provincial Ministry of Agriculture as the core business components. Secondarily, it was expected to support Saskatchewan companion and other non-food animals and out-of-province clients that required service. The partners expectations were for: substantially improved service, strong user involvement through a Board of Directors, professional management, revenue and cost improvements through better use of resources, and the development of new business that would draw on the strong technology base at the WCVM and result in additional types of service and additional technology jobs in Saskatoon.

Now in its second decade of operation, many of the original goals of the PDS partners have been met. PDS’ operations are now fully consolidated at the Western College of Veterinary Medicine in Saskatoon. Diagnostic service is provided by 10 PDS diagnostic staff and approximately 45 laboratory technologists and administrative staff. WCVM faculty participate by providing diagnostic service and contributing a broad skill set of expertise to the service.

PDS currently serves the veterinary community for both large and small animals throughout Saskatchewan. Approximately two thirds of PDS services are delivered within Saskatchewan with the balance provided to clients from Alberta, Manitoba and other domestic and international locations. The company strives for excellence in client service, efficiency in operations and continued evolution of its capacity to serve the animal health market.